Israel vs. Israel

Israel's peace movement—protesting the country's continued occupation of much of the Palestinian territories—is the subject of this documentary by Swedish director Terje Carlsson, which not only showcases various demonstrations, but also captures the often vitriolic reaction from equally passionate fellow citizens on the opposite side. Carlsson focuses on four anti-occupation activists: a woman who assists Palestinians at the ubiquitous Israeli security checkpoints; a soldier who gathers testimony from other military personnel about human-rights abuses; a rabbi who aids Palestinian farmers in resisting the takeover of their land by Jewish settlers; and a self-styled anarchist who engages in civil disobedience to delay the construction of Israel's “security wall.” Carlsson gives each one ample opportunity to explain their motives, which range from theological argument and simple anti-government rhetoric to a desire to liberate the Israeli military from the self-inflicted damage caused by its actions and a wish to save future generations on both sides from having to endure continued suffering. Israel vs. Israel nicely personalizes this polarizing issue with portraits of some courageous people, while also illustrating that the movement itself is hardly monolithic, but rather composed of different groups that employ varying methods to achieve distinct goals. A timely documentary, this is recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)